Top 10 Must-Visit Countries for Your 2017 Travel Plans
Make next year one to remember by adding one of these 10 irresistible countries to your travel itinerary. From the awe-inspiring grandeur of Canada to the ancient allure of Ethiopia, all of them are worthy destinations to visit in 2017.
Canada
Bolstered by the wave of positivity unleashed by its energetic new leader Justin Trudeau, and with dynamic cities that dominate global livability indices and a reputation for inclusiveness and impeccable politeness, Canada will usher in its sesquicentennial in 2017 in rollicking good health. Marking 150 years since confederation, the elongated birthday party promises to be heavy on bonhomie and highly welcoming to international visitors. Moreover, a weak Canadian dollar pushing down prices means that overseas visitors can enjoy Canada’s exciting fusion food and mysteriously underrated wine without breaking the bank.
Colombia
Decades of civil war and violent crime meant Colombian passport stamps were once for hardcore travellers only. However, fast forward to the present day, and the lost years seem but a dust speck in Colombia’s rear-view mirror. There are no world wonders, but the country’s mix of vibrant culture, nature, and hospitality is a rich tapestry woven by welcoming arms. Over a decade into its dramatic transformation, this South American jewel is even expecting a visit from the world’s number-one Catholic, as Pope Francis kisses Colombian soil in 2017, marking the Andean nation’s first papal visit in 30 years.
Finland
Fought over by Russia and Sweden for 800 years, Finland finally gained independence in 1917. The Finns will celebrate their centenary with gusto, with events planned in every region. Expect everything from al fresco concerts and communal culinary experiences to sauna evenings and vintage-travel-poster exhibitions. Additionally, a new national park, spanning 11,000 hectares in Hossa, is set to welcome nature lovers, studded with pine forests and crisscrossed with rivers. With Finland also hosting the World Figure Skating Championships and the Nordic World Ski Championships this year, now is the perfect time to uncover Finland’s unique culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Dominica
Locals joke that if Christopher Columbus rose from the grave and returned to the Caribbean, Dominica is the only island he would still recognize. One glimpse of its prehistoric ferns and deserted shores makes this clear. For decades, a lack of shiny white beaches has kept at bay the resort development that has swept through other parts of the Caribbean. As a result, coconut palms rise as the tallest structures on the island. Consequently, visit before Dominica embraces large-scale chain resorts in 2018, paving the way for a new era of tourism.
Nepal
Even natural disasters can’t keep Nepal down for long. The 2015 earthquakes caused devastation; however, what is most striking from a traveller’s perspective is not how much was lost but how much remains. Landmark temples did crumble, but others emerged with just the odd tile out of place, while whole swathes of the country escaped serious damage, including most of the popular trekking trails. Nepal possesses the necessary skills to repair monuments and infrastructure, but what it needs is income. By travelling to Nepal now and supporting local culture and communities, you could significantly contribute to a nation aiming to rebuild and bounce back even stronger.
Bermuda
The British territory of Bermuda is often mistaken for a Caribbean island, and those in the know might not correct the misunderstanding to enjoy its charm a little longer. Just 1050 km off the coast of North Carolina, Bermuda is reachable from most major east-coast US cities in around two hours—making it a quick getaway infused with British culture and island flair. In June, Bermuda will host the America’s Cup, a historic sailing race where the US will defend its title. Temperate climates and favorable winds render Bermuda the perfect location for both this event and your next vacation.
Mongolia
In 2017, Mongolia will unveil a brand-new capital-city airport, a state-of-the-art facility symbolizing the country’s rapid modernisation. Ulaanbaatar has been the biggest beneficiary of the economic boom, with its transformed skyline bristling with glass and steel towers. At the center of this development is a $500-million Shangri-La complex, featuring a 290-room hotel, an IMAX cinema, and a Hard Rock Café. Beyond the capital lies Mongolia’s stunning countryside, highlighted by Lake Khövsgöl, the Blue Pearl of Asia. In 2015, the lake was connected to Ulaanbaatar by paved road, significantly reducing driving time.
Oman
Oman has been the ace in Arabia’s pack for a while, but with more flights than ever before and high-end hotels popping up everywhere, the sultanate looks ready to elevate its offerings yet again. Luxury accommodation, including the award-winning duo of Six Senses on the Musandam Peninsula and Alila in the Hajar Mountains, has long had a foothold here, and more splendid properties from Anantara, Kempinski, and other high-end names are set to open soon. The burst of construction doesn’t stop there; a $120-million Majarat Oman, a futuristic theme park for families, is set to debut in 2017.
Myanmar
Change has been a long time coming in the nation also known as Burma, but the election of the first civilian government in half a century has all eyes on the future. No one is pretending that all of Myanmar’s problems have vanished; however, things are moving in the right direction, and Southeast Asia’s most secretive country is poised to receive an influx of travellers. Visiting Myanmar comes with challenges, but the reward is an opportunity to explore a vanishing Asia, where the difficulties of travel are part of the allure, and where life follows the timeless rhythm of chanting monks and monastery bells.
Ethiopia
With its own calendar (where else can you get 13 months of sunshine?), timekeeping, script, language, cuisine, church, and coffee, Ethiopia stands out as an exotic destination. Whether you’re trekking through the Simien Mountains to witness unique wildlife, climbing to a church carved into a remote cliff in Tigray, or boating across serene Lake Tana to visit an ancient monastery, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes. In 2017, new airline links will enhance accessibility to the country, inviting more explorers to hop on board.
